Donald Marcellus Wharton passed away peacefully at home, with his children on Sunday August 17, 2025.

Don married Joyce Ellen Arthur on April 29, 1967. They lived in Copenhagen N.Y. for almost 40 years raising three children, Joe (Kim), Tim (Amy) and Krista (Mary) and forging life long friends.

Dad was a tool and die maker by trade, he could build/create/fix almost anything. His extended family, nieces, nephews, friends and sometimes strangers have enjoyed the crafts, hope chests, rocking horses and ornaments which he and Mom designed and created together. They loved to give their creations to see the happiness they brought to others.

One of Dad's greatest joys was being outdoors. He always looked forward to hunting camp weekends surrounded by friends and family sharing stories late into the night. It wasn't about the hunt; it was about the laughter and memories.

In his retirement years, Dad enjoyed traveling with Mom and their beloved dogs, Boots and Cooper. The time spent with their camping friends brought tremendous joy to both mom and dad as he reminisced about those days often.

Dad leaves behind his three children, his four brothers and two sisters, many nieces, nephews and a base of friends that spans across the country.

You fought a great fight Dad as you always taught us to do. We will love and miss you every day. Give mom a big hug from us!

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday August 23, at The Wood, 7439 Canton Street Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027